In a significant political development, Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska has publicly criticized the Pentagon's investigation into Democratic Senator Mark Kelly and five other lawmakers. The controversy stems from a video where the Democratic officials advised military personnel about their rights regarding unlawful orders.
Unprecedented Republican Criticism
Senator Murkowski used social media platform X to voice her concerns on Tuesday, calling the Pentagon's actions "reckless and flat-out wrong." The Alaska Republican specifically objected to accusations of treason and sedition against the Democratic lawmakers. "The Department of Defense and FBI surely have more important priorities than this frivolous investigation," Murkowski asserted in her post.
This represents a rare instance of Republican pushback against the administration's handling of the situation. While other GOP leaders have expressed disagreement with the language used by former President Donald Trump, few have directly condemned the subsequent investigations by federal agencies.
The Controversial Video and Reactions
The political firestorm began when Senator Mark Kelly (D-Arizona) and five other Democratic lawmakers posted a video last week reminding service members that they could "refuse illegal orders." The Democrats described this message as "non-controversial" and simply a reminder to military personnel to follow lawful commands.
Former President Trump responded aggressively, repeatedly accusing the six Democrats of sedition and describing their actions as "SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!" He also amplified another user's post that suggested hanging the lawmakers, invoking George Washington's name.
Expanding Investigations and Bipartisan Concern
The situation has escalated with multiple federal agencies becoming involved. According to Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-Michigan), one of the video participants, the FBI has notified all six Democrats about opening an inquiry into their actions. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has separately announced an investigation into Senator Kelly while labeling the group the "Seditious Six."
Representative Don Bacon (R-Nebraska), an Air Force veteran, joined Murkowski in expressing concern about the administration's response. While calling the Democratic video "unnecessary and foolish," Bacon stated that "the threats of sedition charges and courts martial in response are also crazy." He urged for "common sense and restraint" in handling the situation.
The four House members featured in the video have accused Trump of using federal agencies "as a tool to intimidate and harass Members of Congress." This developing story highlights deepening political divisions and raises questions about the appropriate use of investigative powers against elected officials.
